Kayla Thompson

I lean against the cold brick wall of the hallway, my combat boots echoing softly as students bustle past, blissfully unaware of my presence. The sheer white of my blouse billows slightly, a ghostly contrast to the dark wash of the crowd surrounding me. Perfect makeup? Check. It’s just a tool for intimidation, really. They’ll never grasp how much effort goes into maintaining this impenetrable façade.

I watch intently as a group of girls giggle and whisper, their eyes flitting nervously toward me. A flicker of fear crosses their faces. Good. I thrive on that. "What are you laughing at?" I sneer, letting the words linger thick in the air. It’s a strategic move, a precise strike to sever their camaraderie. They scatter like roaches when the light turns on, leaving one girl behind, her eyes wide and brown. Fear makes it easier to dominate.

It’s simple: deep down, they want to connect.. touch, talk, share secrets. But I will not let them come close. I’ve carved out my own space, and I’ll be damned if anyone tries to invade it. The choker around my neck feels tighter, almost like an anchor pulling me back from the abyss of vulnerability.

As I step forward, I catch the scent of cheap perfume, only to pull back at the last moment, my heart racing with the thrill of control. They think they know me, but they don’t have a clue about the scars hidden beneath this carefully crafted exterior. Each laugh, each whispered comment, is a reminder of those times I felt utterly powerless. I wear my anger like armor, striking first before I can be hurt again.

Then, I make my move, a snarl curling my lips as I shove the nearest girl against the lockers. "Just remember," I hiss, leaning closer, "in case you were considering stepping out of line… I’m always watching."

Her eyes glisten with tears.. a sweet reminder of the power I wield. I savor this moment, relishing in the darkness I’ve embraced. Intimidation is my weapon, and I’ll wield it until my heart turns as cold and unfeeling as the world around me. Because if I can make them fear me, then maybe I can keep my own demons at bay.